This month we thought we’d take a look at common problems you might encounter with your computer or laptop and offer ways in which you can remedy them and stay connected.

PC Not Turning on
This scenario always fills the user with dread – no response when you switch on your computer? No familiar whirring as the machine powers up? It’s an awful feeling and we’ve all been there! First things first – don’t panic! It’s likely to be a simple issue that  can be fixed with little to no cost.

• Is it plugged in and switched on at the wall? If the answer is yes, try a different socket.
• If you’re using a laptop – does it need charging? If it’s plugged in already, try a different charging cable.
• If you are tech savvy you can try booting up in safe mode to find the issue. Using a Mac? Try booting up in safe mode by following the instructions on this page: Safe Mode on a Mac
• If you still can’t boot up you might be best getting some expert help! 

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Computer Running Slow
If your machine is taking ages to load apps, non responsive or freezing mid task there are a few remedies to try before you throw the thing out the window!

• Clear the clutter – Over time your computer can get clogged up with files and apps that you no longer need and this will cause your machine to slow down. Spend some time decluttering and you might see an increase in performance.
• Check for Malware – If decluttering doesn’t work you should do a scan to check your PC hasn’t picked up any malware or adware. 

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Slow Internet Connection
A common complaint that causes unnecessary stress, especially if you are in the middle of an online meeting!

• Do a speed check! – Are you getting the speed your provider states you should be getting? Run a speed check – you need to do this through a wired connection first and then through WI-FI. If the speed check comes back as slow through both connections you  need to contact your service provider.
• Update your Router – If your router is old it’s probably time to replace it. Make sure it’s running the latest firmware. Make sure your router is password protected.
• Update your Browser – Ensuring your PC is running the latest version of your internet browser will mean it is secure and it will run faster. Read our blog Get The Most Out Of Your Broadband.

PC Overheating
If your machine is overheating you will see issues such as poor performance and your machine randomly shutting itself down. It can be worrying when this happens and you do need to act promptly to prevent further problems.

• Bust the dust – Dust is often the biggest cause of overheating. Use compressed air to clear dust from vents and fans.
• Give your PC Space – Your PC needs to be in a well ventilated area with space around it to keep it cool. Laptops can be kept cool by using a cooling stand which allows the air to circulate.
• Keep it cool – Use a cooling mat for your laptop to help stop it overheating.  Keep it on a flat surface and avoid using it on your lap or on a bed.
• Check the fans – If the fans don’t seem to be working properly you may need to replace the thermal paste on the CPU - we would recommend seeking help from a technician.

Unresponsive Apps
It’s frustrating when you’re mid task and suddenly the app freezes. 

• Force quit the app – key combination in Windows Ctrl + Alt + Delete and selecting Task Manager, or press Option (or Alt), Command and Esc on a Mac.
• Restart the computer – If force quit didn't work then a restart might do the trick.
• Update or reinstall the unresponsive app – Make sure you’re running the latest version. Sometimes apps can get corrupted so uninstalling then reinstalling can fix the bugs.

It can be stressful when your computer or laptop starts misbehaving or malfunctioning. If the solutions listed here aren’t working or you’re not confident carrying out some of the more complex tasks it’s advisable to get help from a professional. File Genie can help diagnose and repair your PC or Laptop and even teach you how to maintain your tech yourself.

Get in touch and find out more about our IT support.

Here are our 5 must-do jobs to clean up your tech:

1. Clean your Hardware – Remove crumbs and dust from your PC or laptop – you can use compressed air to help blast the debris out from nooks and crannies (be sure to follow the instructions). Use a damp microfibre cloth to clean the casing, screen, smartphone and tablet.
2. Cut the Clutter – Remove unused apps (if you are unsure which apps you should leave you can check here). Freeing up space by deleting unwanted apps and software will speed up your device and help it last longer.
3. Have a Sort out – Go through your files and photos, delete duplicates, old screenshots and any that are blurry and get them organised into folders – be sure to back them up to an external drive. Print your faves and put them up to enjoy!
4. Clear the Cache – When you visit a website or open an app for the first time your device collects data and stores it in order to make it quicker to load in the future. Over time this cached data can cause your devices to run slower so it makes sense to periodically clear the cache.
5. Update Your Operating System and Antivirus – Make sure your devices are running the latest operating system – any known bugs and security issues will get fixed and your devices will run more efficiently. Antivirus is a non negotiable – make sure it’s up to date and running to protect your devices from phishing, hacks and viruses.

Have fun clearing out some garbage and give your devices a well deserved spruce up.

If you need any help cleaning your laptop, PC, smartphone or tablet then we are always on hand. Contact Ben here: https://www.filegenie.co.uk/get-in-touch.html

GDPR – What you need to know:
The Data Protection Act 2018 is the UK’s implementation of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Anyone who uses personal data must follow ‘data protection principles’ and ensure the information is used fairly and within the law. Personal data must only be used for specified purposes and needs to be limited to what is necessary. Find out more about the Data Protection Act 2018 here.

Minimise the Risks
Employees who work from home and that handle personal data must be fully trained on GDPR and how it affects their working practices. All employees must use strong passwords – it’s hard to keep track of passwords so password managers are a great tool to keep them safe and secure. Encourage your employees to use a VPN (virtual private network) when working from home as an extra layer of security.

The use of company devices is the most expensive option (but most secure) for employees who work remotely. The devices should be able to be supported and updated remotely and measures should be put in place to prevent data loss.

If your employees wish to use their own devices for working from home there are considerations you need to take into account before authorising in order to help prevent data protection and security breaches:

• Ensure your employees have up to date software (including operating system).
• Bear in mind the likelihood of family members or other members of the household seeing sensitive data.
• Do other members of the household share the devices? If so, how can you ensure sensitive data is not shared?
• Encrypt sensitive company data – there are multiple third party hard drive encryption software solutions.
• Discourage the practice of storing or transferring sensitive data to insecure storage devices such as USB sticks.

Security Checklist:

• Up to date policies for remote working.
• Make sure all your employees (and you) are fully trained on data protection and how to remain secure when working remotely.
• Guidance on working remotely for all employees.
• Ensure all employees use strong passwords and utilise multi-factor authentication where possible.
• Ensure employees use company email addresses when dealing with sensitive data.
• Control access so that employees only have access to the data they need and nothing more.
• Ensure all employees have up to date antivirus software installed (and turned on) on any personal device being used for work.
• Ensure you use a corporate VPN to keep connections secure.

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When Employees Leave
To protect against data loss you need to make sure you remove access to the company email address immediately. Remove access to all applications and disable, retrieve and wipe any company owned devices.

On leaving, ask the employee to sign a document acknowledging they have returned any company owned devices and that they haven’t kept any company data.